Is my house suitable for a photovoltaic system? What do I need to consider if I want to install a photovoltaic system on the roof of my house? In order to be able to answer these and other questions easily in future, the pilgrimage town of Kevelaer would like to set up an independent solar advisory service for citizens. To this end, citizen solar advisors are being sought who will be available in their neighborhood as contact persons for interested parties.
"In Kevelaer, only around a quarter of the potential that could be achieved with photovoltaic systems on buildings is currently being used," says climate protection manager Maike Böhm. "With the BürgerSolarBeratung, we want to offer even more support to citizens who are considering the decision to install a photovoltaic system. The advice is not intended to replace other services, but is an additional, low-threshold offer."
The core of the work of BürgerSolarBerater*innen is voluntary, free, neutral and independent advice on the installation of photovoltaic systems for owners of detached and semi-detached houses. Practical tips are provided in a neighborly manner.
In order to be able to carry out the consultations, the advisors receive intensive training in advance. The aim of the training is to set up a local group that organizes itself independently and on its own responsibility. Previous knowledge is useful, but not required.
The training courses are financed by the pilgrimage town of Kevelaer and offered together with the non-profit association MetropolSolar. MetropolSolar is the developer and provider of the training courses. Since October 2021, the association has conducted 14 nationwide training rounds for groups in over 90 municipalities and accompanied volunteers in their practical advisory work. This has triggered numerous consultations. The 15th training round is planned for June/July 2026 and comprises four online workshops lasting several hours.
Before the start of the actual training, a preliminary information event will take place online on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 from 6:30 pm to 9 pm. This information event will give a good idea of what the participating advisors can expect. There will also be an opportunity to clarify any open questions before the start of the training. Interested parties can register for the pre-info event by emailing klimaschutz@kevelaer.de by May 22, 2026.
It should be noted that a professional activity or close connection to a company active in this field generally excludes participation in the training and collaboration in the Citizens' Solar Advisory Group.